One of the defining sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s, the MGB entered production in 1962 and its enduring popularity saw it remain on sale in its original form until 1980, with over 520,000 sold during that time.
Its appeal was and still is obvious to this day; classic two-door roadster styling, a convertible roof, rear-wheel drive and a lively four-cylinder engine.
Originally yellow in colour, this MGB Roadster was MOT tested every year until 1974 when it had an odometer reading of 83,863. The MOT records aren’t available again until 1984.
It is assumed that during this time the car was extensively reconditioned, and this is likely also when the body colour changed to its current shade of bright red. It was at this point that the odometer also returned to zero as a result of an engine change.
Acting on a passion for classic vehicles, the current owner bought the car in April 2018 from a maths professor in High Peak, who had owned the car since 1994, taking extremely good care of it during that time. In the last twelve years it has covered only 1,500 miles, 200 of those in the last three years with the current owner, only venturing out to local classic car shows. It is never driven in anything other than warm, dry conditions.
It is only being sold because the current owner wishes for someone to use it more often and get the benefit of what is a very driveable and beautiful classic car. The current logbook indicates only two previous owners although that is believed to only be since 1984.
Available documentation of the car’s service and repair history is extensive, with all of the MOTs from 1984 present, as well as hundreds of maintenance records.
The current V5C, as well as the original 1965 logbook, are present. Invoices for the 2005 respray, 2007 gearbox rebuild and every other work the car has received in the last 25 years are also at hand.
Inside the car is virtually spotless, with black leather upholstery that is finished off by red piping to match the exterior colour. The seats, door cards, carpets and dashboard show little to no signs of wear, and all the switchgear functions correctly.
A modern, but subtle, radio is fitted underneath the passenger side of the dashboard, while the wind deflector improves the driving experience when the roof is down. The only negative of the interior is a small dent on the central speaker cover.
The exterior of the car is in superb condition, with a large portion of the car undergoing a respray in 2005. There are a few small blemishes on the bonnet and on the doors near the wing mirrors, as well as a tiny dent in the nearside rear wing. Shut lines are not perfect, in particular the boot lid, which is a common issue on MGBs due to the design of the boot strut.
All of the brightwork is absolutely pristine, including the bumpers, wing mirrors, front grille and fabulous wire wheels which sit inside corrosion-free wheel arches. The soft-top roof is in very good order as well, with only a couple of small tears on the nearside. It raises and lowers as it should, and both hood-only and full tonneau covers are included in the sale.
Described according to the MG Owner’s Club condition codes, this MGB would be classified as a “Condition 2” vehicle, meaning it has been properly restored to a high standard.
The 1798cc engine has covered little over a 14,500 miles since being installed. It fires up immediately, even from cold, and runs sweetly throughout the rev range, resulting in nippy performance. A brand-new four-speed gearbox was fitted in 2007, in which time the car has covered around 3,000 miles. It is stable at high speed and cruises beautifully, with the temperature and oil pressure remaining constant.
Recent work includes an oil and filter service and a cylinder head change in 2020, and it can now run on unleaded fuel. As with any car of this age there are a couple of very small oil leaks, likely one from the sump and the other from the oil filter that hasn’t quite sealed properly.
Brakes and steering are to original specification, meaning they are non-power assisted, giving the driver a genuine vintage car experience behind the wheel.
The underside was cleaned off and undersealed in 2017, as evidenced by the photographs.
This wonderful example of an MGB is a fantastic way to experience the joys of classic car ownership in a beautiful, well cared for and very usable package. The interior and exterior are in excellent condition and mechanically it is in very good order, promising the new owner years of enjoyable vintage motoring.
MGBs also enjoy a strong following and the Owners’ Clubs and plentiful specialist repair garages mean that there is a wealth of knowledge and advice only a phone call (or a few keyboard taps) away. This is a car that will put a smile on your face whether you’re simply staring at it or behind the wheel out on the open road.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here
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1965 MGB Roadster
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